Reusable applicators and related methods

ABSTRACT

A method ( 500 ) for removing glutinous substance ( 298 ) from applicator ( 100 ) comprises removing plunger ( 342 ) from applicator ( 100 ) before glutinous substance ( 298 ) has solidified; allowing glutinous substance ( 298 ) to solidify inside applicator ( 100 ); detaching side cover ( 110 ) from base portion ( 111 ) of first body portion ( 102 ) to expose first sealant plug ( 302 ); severing first sealant plug ( 302 ) from second sealant plug ( 304 ); severing first sealant plug ( 302 ) from third sealant plug ( 300 ); detaching tip portion ( 106 ) of applicator ( 100 ) from second body portion ( 104 ) to expose a portion of second sealant plug ( 304 ); extracting second sealant plug ( 304 ) from second body portion ( 104 ) by pulling portion of second sealant plug ( 304 ) in direction ( 320 ) along second body portion ( 104 ); separating first sealant plug ( 302 ) from base portion ( 111 ) of first body portion ( 102 ); and extracting third sealant plug ( 300 ) from end-effector interface ( 112 ) of first body portion ( 102 ).

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/460,164, filed Mar. 15, 2017. The completedisclosure of the above-identified patent application is herebyincorporated by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to reusable applicators for glutinoussubstances and to associated methods.

BACKGROUND

Sealant applicators may lose functionality due to internal accumulationof solidified sealant. Production of replacement applicators increasescosts and manufacturing lead time. Moreover, additional expenses may beincurred in conjunction with environmentally responsible disposal ofdysfunctional applicators.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, apparatuses and methods, intended to address at least theabove-identified concerns, would find utility.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may notbe claimed, of the subject matter according to the invention.

One example of the subject matter according to the invention relates toan applicator for delivering a glutinous substance. Applicator comprisesa first body portion, comprising a base portion, an end-effectorinterface, extending from the base portion, and a side cover to beremovably coupled to the base portion. A first cavity is formed in thefirst body portion when the side cover is removably coupled to the baseportion. The first cavity is at least partially defined by the baseportion, the side cover, and the end-effector interface. Applicator alsocomprises a second body portion, extending from the base portion of thefirst body portion. The second body portion is non-parallel to the firstbody portion. A second cavity extends through the second body portionand intersects the first cavity. Applicator further comprises a tipportion to be removably coupled to the second body portion. The tipportion comprises a nozzle portion and a third cavity thatcommunicatively couples with the second cavity when the tip portion isremovably coupled to the second body portion. The applicatoradditionally comprises an inner sleeve to be coaxially received insidethe third cavity of the tip portion. The applicator also comprises anactuator interface, extending from the second body portion opposite thetip portion.

Use of removably coupled components (e.g. side cover 110 and baseportion 111) as set forth above allows for disassembly, cleaning, andreassembly of applicator 100. First cavity 114, second cavity 168, andthird cavity 220 form a continuous channel from end-effector interface112 to nozzle portion 192 for glutinous substance 298 to flow through.Use of actuator interface 108 provides an option for further flowcontrol by means of an actuator and plunger, described below. Tipportion 106 may be removed to uncover inner sleeve 210. This arrangementmechanically separates tapered second end 214 of inner sleeve 210 fromtip portion 106. This permits the exposure of a plug of glutinoussubstance in nozzle portion 192 during disassembly by removing tipportion 106. Without the separation of tip portion 106 and inner sleeve210, the internal narrowing would prevent removal of tip portion 106 dueto the plug in nozzle portion 192.

Another example of the subject matter according to the invention relatesto a method of assembling an applicator for delivering a glutinoussubstance. The method comprises attaching a side cover to a base portionof a first body portion of the applicator. An end-effector interfaceextends from the base portion at a first end of the first body portion.The applicator comprises a second body portion, extending from the baseportion at a second end of the first body portion. A first cavity formedin the first body portion is at least partially defined by the baseportion the end-effector interface and the side cover. The second bodyportion is non-parallel to the first body portion. A second cavity,extending through the second body portion, is in fluid communicationwith the first cavity of the first body portion. The method alsocomprises assembling a tip portion of the applicator by inserting aninner sleeve into the tip portion such that the inner sleeve is coaxialwith the tip portion. A third cavity extends through the inner sleeve.The method additionally comprises coupling the tip portion to the secondbody portion such that the tip portion and the second body portion arecoaxial and the third cavity of the inner sleeve is in fluidcommunication with the second cavity of the second body portion.

Assembling first cavity 114, second cavity 168, and third cavity 220 influid communication allows glutinous substance 298 to flow throughapplicator 100 from end-effector interface 112 through tip portion 106.In this manner, applicator 100 may deliver glutinous substance 298. Thevarious components are also configured for ease of assembly anddisassembly.

Yet another example of the subject matter according to the inventionrelates to a method for removing a glutinous substance from anapplicator. The method comprises removing an actuator and a plunger,extending from the actuator, from the applicator before the glutinoussubstance has solidified. The method also comprises allowing theglutinous substance to solidify inside the applicator, such that theglutinous substance that has solidified comprises a first sealant plug,located inside a first body portion of the applicator, a second sealantplug, integral with the first sealant plug and located partially insidea second body portion of the applicator, and a third sealant plug,integral with the first sealant plug and located inside an end-effectorinterface, extending from a base portion of the first body portion. Themethod additionally comprises detaching a side cover from the baseportion of the first body portion to expose the first sealant plug. Themethod further comprises severing the first sealant plug from the secondsealant plug at a first junction between the first body portion and thesecond body portion. The method also comprises severing the firstsealant plug from the third sealant plug at a second junction betweenthe base portion of the first body portion and the end-effectorinterface. The method additionally comprises detaching a tip portion ofthe applicator from the second body portion to expose a portion of thesecond sealant plug. The method further comprises extracting the secondsealant plug from the second body portion by pulling the portion of thesecond sealant plug, exposed by detaching the tip portion from thesecond body portion away from the second body portion in a directionalong the second body portion. In addition, the method comprisesseparating the first sealant plug from the base portion of the firstbody portion. The method also comprises extracting the third sealantplug from the end-effector interface of the first body portion.

Allowing glutinous substance 298 to solidify prior to disassemblyprovides a manageably discrete set of sealant plugs that is cleaner andmore straightforward to remove from applicator 100 than a non-hardenedglutinous substance 298. Removing plunger 342 and actuator 340 prior tosolidification of glutinous substance 298 allows portions of the sealantplug to be severed during removal steps. Use of removable components(e.g. side cover 110, and tip portion 106) allows access to the sealantplugs (i.e. first sealant plug 302, second sealant plug 304, and thirdsealant plug 300) at key geometries of applicator 100. Severing firstsealant plug 302 from second sealant plug 304 allows second sealant plug304 to be pulled from applicator 100 without being trapped against firstjunction 150. Similarly, severing first sealant plug 302 from thirdsealant plug 300 allows both first sealant plug 302 and third sealantplug 300 to be removed without being trapped against second junction310.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described one or more examples of the invention in generalterms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, whichare not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein like referencecharacters designate the same or similar parts throughout the severalviews, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a reusable applicator, according to one ormore examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, side elevation view of the reusable applicator ofFIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, bottom plan view of the reusable applicator ofFIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, top plan view of the reusable applicator of FIG.2, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic, front elevation view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, rear elevation view of the reusable applicator ofFIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicator ofFIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, isometric, exploded view of the reusableapplicator of FIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, bottom plan, exploded view of the reusableapplicator of FIG. 2, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, partial, detail view of a connection portion ofthe reusable applicator of FIG. 2, in a first configuration, accordingto one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a schematic, partial, detail view of the connection portionof FIG. 10, in a second configuration, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a schematic, partial, detail view of the connection portionof FIG. 10, in a third configuration, according to one or more examplesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 2, including a glutinous substance in interior cavities,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 2, with an actuator and plunger portion removed, according toone or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a schematic, side elevation view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 2, with an access door removed, according to one or moreexamples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 15, with a portion of the glutinous substance removed, accordingto one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 16, with an actuator interface removed, according to one or moreexamples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a schematic, side elevation view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 17, with an outer sleeve portion removed, according to one ormore examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 18, with another portion of the glutinous substance removed,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a schematic, sectional side view of the reusable applicatorof FIG. 19, with a body portion removed, according to one or moreexamples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a method of assembling the reusableapplicator of FIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 22A and 22B collectively are a block diagram of a method ofutilizing the reusable applicator of FIG. 1, according to one or moreexamples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of aircraft production and servicemethodology; and

FIG. 24 is a schematic illustration of an aircraft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1, referred to above, solid lines, if any, connecting variouselements and/or components may represent mechanical, electrical, fluid,optical, electromagnetic and other couplings and/or combinationsthereof. As used herein, “coupled” means associated directly as well asindirectly. For example, a member A may be directly associated with amember B, or may be indirectly associated therewith, e.g., via anothermember C. It will be understood that not all relationships among thevarious disclosed elements are necessarily represented. Accordingly,couplings other than those depicted in the block diagrams may alsoexist. Dashed lines, if any, connecting blocks designating the variouselements and/or components represent couplings similar in function andpurpose to those represented by solid lines; however, couplingsrepresented by the dashed lines may either be selectively provided ormay relate to alternative examples of the present disclosure. Likewise,elements and/or components, if any, represented with dashed lines,indicate alternative examples of the present disclosure. One or moreelements shown in solid and/or dashed lines may be omitted from aparticular example without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. Environmental elements, if any, are represented with dottedlines. Virtual (imaginary) elements may also be shown for clarity. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that some of the features illustratedin FIG. 1 may be combined in various ways without the need to includeother features described in FIG. 1, other drawing figures, and/or theaccompanying disclosure, even though such combination or combinationsare not explicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional featuresnot limited to the examples presented, may be combined with some or allof the features shown and described herein.

In FIGS. 21, 22A, and 22B, referred to above, the blocks may representoperations and/or portions thereof and lines connecting the variousblocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operationsor portions thereof. Blocks represented by dashed lines indicatealternative operations and/or portions thereof. Dashed lines, if any,connecting the various blocks represent alternative dependencies of theoperations or portions thereof. It will be understood that not alldependencies among the various disclosed operations are necessarilyrepresented. FIGS. 21, 22A, and 22B and the accompanying disclosuredescribing the operations of the method(s) set forth herein should notbe interpreted as necessarily determining a sequence in which theoperations are to be performed. Rather, although one illustrative orderis indicated, it is to be understood that the sequence of the operationsmay be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, certain operations may beperformed in a different order or simultaneously. Additionally, thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that not all operations describedneed be performed.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts, which may bepracticed without some or all of these particulars. In other instances,details of known devices and/or processes have been omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. While some concepts will bedescribed in conjunction with specific examples, it will be understoodthat these examples are not intended to be limiting.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are usedherein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal,positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which theseterms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does notrequire or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbereditem, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

Reference herein to “one example” means that one or more feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example isincluded in at least one implementation. The phrase “one example” invarious places in the specification may or may not be referring to thesame example.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element,component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function isindeed capable of performing the specified function without anyalteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specifiedfunction after further modification. In other words, the system,apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware“configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected,created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for thepurpose of performing the specified function. As used herein,“configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus,structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable thesystem, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardwareto perform the specified function without further modification. Forpurposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article,element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to”perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively bedescribed as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” performthat function.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may or may not be claimed,of the subject matter according the present disclosure are providedbelow.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, applicator 100 for delivering glutinous substance 298 is disclosed.Applicator 100 comprises first body portion 102, comprising base portion111, end-effector interface 112, extending from base portion 111, andside cover 110 to be removably coupled to base portion 111. First cavity114 is formed in first body portion 102 when side cover 110 is removablycoupled to base portion 111. First cavity 114 is at least partiallydefined by base portion 111, side cover 110, and end-effector interface112. Applicator 100 also comprises second body portion 104, extendingfrom base portion 111 of first body portion 102. Second body portion 104is non-parallel to first body portion 102. Second cavity 168 extendsthrough second body portion 104 and intersects first cavity 114.Applicator 100 also comprises tip portion 106 to be removably coupled tosecond body portion 104. Tip portion 106 comprises nozzle portion 192,and third cavity 220 that communicatively couples with second cavity 168when tip portion 106 is removably coupled to second body portion 104.Applicator 100 also comprises inner sleeve 210 to be coaxially receivedinside third cavity 220 of tip portion 106. Applicator 100 alsocomprises actuator interface 108, extending from second body portion 104opposite tip portion 106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 1 of the present disclosure.

Use of removably coupled components (e.g. side cover 110 and baseportion 111) as set forth above allows for disassembly, cleaning, andreassembly of applicator 100. First cavity 114, second cavity 168, andthird cavity 220 form a continuous channel from end-effector interface112 to nozzle portion 192 for glutinous substance 298 to flow through.Use of actuator interface 108 provides an option for further flowcontrol by means of an actuator and plunger, described below. Tipportion 106 may be removed to uncover inner sleeve 210. This arrangementmechanically separates tapered second end 214 of inner sleeve 210 fromtip portion 106. This permits the exposure of a plug of glutinoussubstance in nozzle portion 192 during disassembly by removing tipportion 106. Without the separation of tip portion 106 and inner sleeve210, the internal narrowing would prevent removal of tip portion 106 dueto the plug in nozzle portion 192.

Side cover 110 may include first end 130 and second end 132, and isconfigured to cover side opening 125 in base portion 111. Removing sidecover 110 may provide access to a junction or intersection 176 betweenfirst cavity 113 and second cavity 168. First cavity 113 has innerdiameter 116, e.g., a continuous inner diameter, defining a hollowpassage for glutinous substance 298. Second body portion has outersurface 164 and inner surface 166. Inner surface 166 of second bodyportion 104 may comprise multiple inner diameters. In some examples,second cavity 168 has a narrowing portion 170 adjacent distal end 158,where second cavity 168 transitions from larger first diameter 172 tosmaller second diameter 174. Tip portion 106 may have first end 184,second end 186, outer surface 194, and inner surface 196. Inner sleeve210 may itself comprise first end 212, tapered second end 214, outersurface 216 generally facing inner surface 196 of tip portion 106, andinner surface 218. Actuator interface 108 also may have a first end 240and a second end 242.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 7,actuator 340 is coupled to actuator interface 108. Actuator 340comprises plunger 342. Plunger 342 extends from actuator 340 throughsecond cavity 168. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 2 of the present disclosure, wherein example 2also includes the subject matter according to example 1, above.

Glutinous substance 298 may be provided to applicator 100 viaend-effector interface 112 at a selected pressure. Coupling actuator 340to actuator interface 108 of applicator 100 allows control over the flowof glutinous substance 298 through applicator 100, e.g., by throttling.In some examples, actuator 340 may be actuated by a controllablemechanism, facilitating automatic control of the flow of glutinoussubstance 298.

Actuator 340 may be coupled to actuator interface 108 by any suitablereleasably securable mechanism. For example, actuator 340 may be coupledto a twist-lock or bayonet-style connector 250 on first end 240 ofactuator interface 108.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 7, plunger342 of actuator 340 further comprises head portion 344. Actuator 340 isoperable to transition head portion 344 inside tip portion 106 betweenfirst position 346, with head portion 344 forward of inner sleeve 210and inside nozzle portion 192, and second position 348, with headportion 344 at least partially within inner sleeve 210. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 3 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 3 also includes the subject matter accordingto example 2, above.

Use of head portion 344 on plunger 342 allows actuator 340 toeffectively turn on, turn off, and variably throttle a flow of glutinoussubstance 298. In first position 346, glutinous substance 298 can flowaround head portion 344 and out of nozzle portion 192. In secondposition 348, head portion 344 blocks glutinous substance 298 fromflowing out of inner sleeve 210. Transition of head portion 344 fromfirst position 346 to second position 348 may encourage any portion ofglutinous substance 298 present in nozzle portion 192 to return towardinner sleeve 210, functioning as a “snuff-back” mechanism to preventunwanted outflow of glutinous substance 298.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, second body portion 104 is monolithic with base portion 111 of firstbody portion 102. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 4 of the present disclosure, wherein example 4also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1 to3, above.

Use of a single part for body portion 104 and base portion 111 providesstructural support and rigidity to applicator 100, and retains bodyportion 104 and base portion 111 at a fixed angle. Monolithicconstruction simplifies the overall mechanism, requiring fewerconnections and reducing manufacturing cost.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, nozzle portion 192 of tip portion 106 comprises fourth cavity 193,communicatively coupled with third cavity 220. At least a portion offourth cavity 193 is tapered. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 5 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 5 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1 to 4, above.

Use of nozzle portion 192 allows for improved flow control of glutinoussubstance 298. A smaller exit diameter of nozzle portion 192 reducespressure and increases exit flow velocity of glutinous substance 298.Fourth cavity 193 accommodates head portion 344 of plunger 342, allowinga transition of plunger 342 from first position 346 to second position348 to facilitate the snuff-back effect described above.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 7, innersleeve 210 comprises first inner diameter 224 and second inner diameter226. Second inner diameter 226 is smaller than first inner diameter 224.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 6of the present disclosure, wherein example 6 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 5, above.

Use of smaller second inner diameter 226 provides a narrowed neck orconstriction 222 for receiving head portion 344 of plunger 342 when insecond position 348. Constriction 222 may be contoured and sized toreceive head portion 344, allowing head portion 344 to block flow ofglutinous substance 298.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 7 through9, tip portion 106 and inner sleeve 210 are interlocked when innersleeve is received inside third cavity 220 of tip portion 106, such thatinner sleeve 210 is prevented from rotating with respect to tip portion106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 7 of the present disclosure, wherein example 7 also includes thesubject matter according to any one of examples 1 to 6, above.

Preventing rotation of inner sleeve 210 with respect to tip portion 106when interlocked helps to ensure proper assembly of applicator 100.Inner sleeve 210 can be removably locked to tip portion 106, withmatching rotational orientations. A selectable number of orientationsmay be provided. For instance, in this example, one orientation isprovided.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 7 through9, inner sleeve 210 comprises splined outer surface 228. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 8 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 8 also includes the subject matter accordingto example 7, above.

Use of a spline surface facilitates a reliable and convenient interlock,which simplifies assembly and reduces assembly errors.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through12, tip portion 106 comprises proximal connector portion 188. Secondbody portion 104 comprises distal connector portion 160. Tip portion 106is to be removably coupled to second body portion 104 at least in partby engaging proximal connector portion 188 of tip portion 106 withdistal connector portion 160 of second body portion 104 so that tipportion 106 is rotationally fixed relative to second body portion 104.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 9of the present disclosure, wherein example 9 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 8, above.

Engaging proximal connector portion 188 with distal connector portion160 provides a reliable, convenient, and secure connection between firstend 184 of tip portion 106 and distal end 158 of second body portion104.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through12, proximal connector portion 188 of tip portion 106 comprises pair ofopposing fingers 190, having respective flanged tips 191. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 10 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 10 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 9, above.

Use of opposing fingers 190 facilitates connection with a connector onsecond body portion 104, for example opposing flanges as describedbelow. Interlocked fingers and flanges also provide a seating surfacefor a circlip.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 through 12 and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 10 through 12, distal connector portion 160 of second body portion104 comprises pair of opposing flanges 162. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 11 of the present disclosure,wherein example 11 also includes the subject matter according to example10, above.

Use of opposing flanges 162 allows distal connector portion 160 atdistal end 158 of second body portion 104 to interlock with opposingfingers 190 of proximal connector portion 188, to facilitate a secureconnection between second body portion 104 and tip portion 106, andprovide a seating surface for a circlip.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 through 12 and particularly to, e.g.,FIGS. 10 through 12, pair of opposing fingers 190 of proximal connectorportion 188 of tip portion 106 are configured to interlock with pair ofopposing flanges 162 of distal connector portion 160 of second bodyportion 104 so that gap 163 is formed between respective flanged tips191 of pair of opposing fingers 190 of proximal connector portion 188and pair of opposing flanges 162 of distal connector portion 160. Firstcirclip 284 is to be received into gap 163 to secure tip portion 106 tosecond body portion 104 to prevent tip portion 106 from translatingrelative to second body portion 104. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 12 of the present disclosure,wherein example 12 also includes the subject matter according to example11, above.

Use of opposing fingers 190 that are interlocked and opposing flanges162 with a circlip provides a removable connection for coupling tipportion 106 and second body portion 104 that is secure, repeatable, andreliable. A simple connector and clip connection is convenient andcost-effective.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, actuator interface 108 is monolithic with second body portion 104.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 13of the present disclosure, wherein example 13 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 12, above.

Use of actuator interface 108 that is monolithic with second bodyportion 104 may simplify construction and reduce manufacturing costs ofapplicator 100.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, actuator interface 108 is detachable from second body portion 104.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 14of the present disclosure, wherein example 14 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 12, above.

Use of actuator interface 108 that is detachable facilitates disassemblyof applicator 100 for cleaning.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, actuator interface 108 comprises interface connector portion 260,interlockable with proximal connector portion 154 of second body portion104. Second circlip 282 is to secure actuator interface 108 to secondbody portion 104 to prevent actuator interface 108 from translatingrelative to second body portion 104. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 15 of the present disclosure,wherein example 15 also includes the subject matter according to example14, above.

Engaging interface connector portion 260 with proximal connector portion154 provides a reliable, convenient, and secure connection betweenproximal end 152 of second body portion 104 and second end 242 ofactuator interface 108.

Proximal connector portion 154 and interface connector portion 260 mayinclude any suitable releasably securable connection mechanism. Forexample, proximal connector portion 154 may comprise a pair of opposingfingers 156 configured to interlock with a corresponding pair ofopposing flanges or projections 262, in similar fashion to theinterlocking mechanism, shown in FIGS. 10-12. Second circlip 282 maysecure fingers 156 to projections 262.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 6 through8, actuator interface 108 comprises aperture 244, passing therethrough.Aperture 244 is communicatively coupled with second cavity 168 whenactuator interface 108 is removably coupled to second body portion 104.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 16of the present disclosure, wherein example 16 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 14 or 15, above.

Aperture 244 allows plunger 342 to extend into second cavity 168 andacts as a guide to align plunger 342 with a central axis of second bodyportion 104 and tip portion 106.

Plunger 342 may extend from actuator 340 through aperture 244, which hasinner diameter 248 configured to allow passage of a shaft or rod ofplunger 342.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, applicator 100 also comprises first sensor port 118, formed in firstbody portion 102. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 17 of the present disclosure, wherein example 17also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1 to16, above.

Use of first sensor port 118 allows a first sensor to be removablycoupled to applicator 100, for sensing pressure, flow rate, and thelike.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, first sensor port 118 is formed in base portion 111 of first bodyportion 102. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 18 of the present disclosure, wherein example 18also includes the subject matter according to example 17, above.

Forming first sensor port 118 in base portion 111 facilitates a seamlesssensor port and simplifies the design of side cover 110.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, applicator 100 also comprises second sensor port 120, formed in firstbody portion 102. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 19 of the present disclosure, wherein example 19also includes the subject matter according to example 17 or 18, above.

Use of second sensor port 120 allows a second sensor to be removablycoupled to applicator 100, for sensing pressure, flow rate, and thelike.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, second sensor port 120 is formed in base portion 111 of first bodyportion 102. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 20 of the present disclosure, wherein example 20also includes the subject matter according to example 19, above.

Forming second sensor port 120 in base portion 111 facilitates aseamless sensor port and simplifies the design of side cover 110.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2 through9, first sensor port 118 is formed opposite second sensor port 120. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 21 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 21 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 19 or 20, above.

Use of opposed sensor ports allows a first sensor and a second sensor toindependently sense characteristics of a flow of glutinous substance 298through first body portion 102. Such placement prevents interferencebetween the first sensor and the second sensor, and also interferencebetween cables associated with the sensors.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 8,applicator 100 also comprises seal 140. Seal 140 is positionable betweenside cover 110 and base portion 111, wherein seal 140 is positionablebetween two three-dimensional surfaces. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 22 of the present disclosure,wherein example 22 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 1 to 21, above.

Use of seal 140 prevents leakage of glutinous substance 298 from aninterface between side cover 110 and base portion 111. The ability toconform to a three dimensional shape allows seal 140 to conform to acontour of the interface, and thereby prevent kinks or leakage thatmight result from folding as seal 140 follows the interface.

Seal 140 may include any suitable gasket or other sealing member, andmay include a flexible and/or resilient band. Seal 140 may bepositionable between a contoured or three-dimensional surface 128 ofside cover 110 and a corresponding surface of base portion 111.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 7 through9, applicator 100 also comprises first annular seal 288, positionablebetween second body portion 104 and tip portion 106. First annular seal288 is positionable between a first two two-dimensional surfaces. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 23 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 23 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1 to 22, above.

Use of first annular seal 288 allows a connection between second bodyportion 104 and tip portion 106 to be sealed.

First annular seal 288 may include any suitable annular sealingmechanism, such as an o-ring or gasket.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 7 through9, applicator 100 also comprises second annular seal 286, positionablebetween second body portion 104 and actuator interface 108, whereinsecond annular seal 286 is positionable between a second twotwo-dimensional surfaces. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 24 of the present disclosure, wherein example 24also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1 to23, above.

Use of second annular seal 286 allows a connection between second bodyportion 104 and actuator interface 108 to be sealed.

Second annular seal 286 may include any suitable annular sealingmechanism, such as an o-ring or gasket.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIGS. 1-12 and particularly to FIG. 21,method 400 of assembling applicator 100 for delivering glutinoussubstance 298 is disclosed. Method 400 comprises (block 402) attachingside cover 110 to base portion 111 of first body portion 102 ofapplicator 100. End-effector interface 112 extends from base portion 111at first end 142 of first body portion 102. Applicator 100 comprisessecond body portion 104, extending from base portion 111 at second end144 of first body portion 102. First cavity 114, formed in first bodyportion 102, is at least partially defined by base portion 111,end-effector interface 112, and side cover 110. Second body portion 104is non-parallel to first body portion 102. Second cavity 168, extendingthrough second body portion 104, is in fluid communication with firstcavity 114 of first body portion 102. Method 400 additionally comprises(block 404) assembling tip portion 106 of applicator 100 by insertinginner sleeve 210 into tip portion 106, such that inner sleeve 210 iscoaxial with tip portion 106. Third cavity 220 extends through innersleeve 210. Method 400 also comprises (block 406) coupling tip portion106 to second body portion 104, such that tip portion 106 and secondbody portion 104 are coaxial and third cavity 220 of inner sleeve 210 isin fluid communication with second cavity 168 of second body portion104. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 25 of the present disclosure.

Assembling first cavity 114, second cavity 168, and third cavity 220 influid communication allows glutinous substance 298 to flow throughapplicator 100 from end-effector interface 112 through tip portion 106.In this manner, applicator 100 may deliver glutinous substance 298. Thevarious components are also configured for ease of assembly anddisassembly.

Guiding indicia on various components of applicator 100 may be used tocarry out or align portions of the applicator when carrying out steps ofmethod 400, including further steps described below. For example, smalltriangles or arrow-like indicia may be present on different componentsto show where neighboring components align radially. For example, asdepicted in FIG. 9, triangle 290 on actuator interface 108, triangle 292on second body portion 104, triangle 294 on inner sleeve 210, andtriangle 296 on tip portion 106 are all meant to align when applicator100 is properly assembled.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIGS. 1-12 and particularly to FIG. 21,method 400 further comprises (block 410) coupling actuator interface 108to proximal end 152 of second body portion 104, opposing tip portion106. Actuator interface 108 comprises aperture 244 to receive plunger342, extending from actuator 340. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 26 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 26 also includes the subject matter according to example 25,above.

Use of actuator interface 108 allows an actuator to be connected toapplicator 100, and provides a guide to align actuator plunger 342 witha central axis of second body portion 104 and tip portion 106.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIG. 7 and particularly to FIG. 21, method400 further comprises (block 412) inserting plunger 342, extending fromactuator 340, through aperture 244 of actuator interface 108 andcoupling actuator 340 to actuator interface 108. Plunger 342 extendsthrough second cavity 168. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 27 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 27 also includes the subject matter according example 26, above.

Use of plunger 342 allows control over flow of glutinous substance 298through applicator 100. For example, actuator 340 may provide automaticcontrol of plunger 342 and thereby automatic control of the flow ofglutinous substance 298.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIGS. 7 through 9 and particularly to FIG.21, according to method 400, assembling tip portion 106 furthercomprises (block 414) engaging splined outer surface 228 of inner sleeve210 with splined inner surface 200 of tip portion 106. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 28 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 28 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 25 to 27, above.

Use of splined outer surface 228 and splined inner surface 200 preventsrotation of inner sleeve 210 with respect to tip portion 106, andfacilitates reliable and secure assembly.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIGS. 1-12 and particularly to FIG. 21,according to method 400, coupling tip portion 106 to second body portion104 comprises (block 416) engaging proximal connector portion 188 of tipportion 106 with distal connector portion 160 of second body portion104. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 29 of the present disclosure, wherein example 29 also includesthe subject matter according to any one of examples 25 to 28, above.

Use of proximal connector portion 188 and distal connector portion 160provides a reliable, convenient, and secure connection between tipportion 106 and second body portion 104.

Referring generally, e.g., to FIGS. 1-12 and particularly to FIG. 21,method 400 further comprises (block 408) securing proximal connectorportion 188 of tip portion 106 to distal connector portion 160 of secondbody portion 104 using first circlip 284. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 30 of the present disclosure,wherein example 30 also includes the subject matter according to example29.

Use of first circlip 284 provides a removable connection for couplingtip portion 106 and second body portion 104 that is secure, repeatable,and reliable. A simple connector and clip connection may be convenientand cost-effective.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 13through 20, method 500 for removing glutinous substance 298 fromapplicator 100 is disclosed. Method 500 comprises (block 502) removingactuator 340 and plunger 342, extending from actuator 340, fromapplicator 100 before glutinous substance 298 has solidified. Method 500also comprises (block 504) allowing glutinous substance 298 to solidifyinside applicator 100, such that glutinous substance 298 that hassolidified comprises first sealant plug 302, located inside first bodyportion 102 of applicator 100, second sealant plug 304, integral withfirst sealant plug 302 and located partially inside second body portion104 of applicator 100, and third sealant plug 300, integral with firstsealant plug 302 and located inside end-effector interface 112,extending from base portion 111 of first body portion 102. Method 500additionally comprises (block 506) detaching side cover 110 from baseportion 111 of first body portion 102 to expose first sealant plug 302.Method 500 further comprises (block 508) severing first sealant plug 302from second sealant plug 304 at first junction 150 between first bodyportion 102 and second body portion 104. Method 500 also comprises(block 510) severing first sealant plug 302 from third sealant plug 300at second junction 310 between base portion 111 of first body portion102 and end-effector interface 112. Method 500 additionally comprises(block 512) detaching tip portion 106 of applicator 100 from second bodyportion 104 to expose a portion of second sealant plug 304. Method 500further comprises (block 514) extracting second sealant plug 304 fromsecond body portion 104 by pulling the portion of second sealant plug304, exposed by detaching tip portion 106 from second body portion 104away from second body portion 104 in direction 320 along second bodyportion 104. Method 500 also comprises (block 516) separating firstsealant plug 302 from base portion 111 of first body portion 102. Method500 further comprises (block 518) extracting third sealant plug 300 fromend-effector interface 112 of first body portion 102. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 31 of the presentdisclosure.

Allowing glutinous substance 298 to solidify prior to disassemblyprovides a manageably discrete set of sealant plugs that is cleaner andmore straightforward to remove from applicator 100 than glutinoussubstance 298 that has not solidified. Removing plunger 342 and actuator340 prior to solidification of glutinous substance 298 allows portionsof the sealant plug to be severed during removal steps. Use of removablecomponents (e.g. side cover 110, and tip portion 106) allows access tothe sealant plugs (i.e. first sealant plug 302, second sealant plug 304,and third sealant plug 300) at key geometries of applicator 100.Severing first sealant plug 302 from second sealant plug 304 allowssecond sealant plug 304 to be pulled from applicator 100 without beingtrapped against first junction 150. Similarly, severing first sealantplug 302 from third sealant plug 300 allows both first sealant plug 302and third sealant plug 300 to be removed without being trapped againstsecond junction 310.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 13through 15, according to method 500, separating first sealant plug 302from base portion 111 of first body portion 102 comprises (block 532)separating a first portion of first sealant plug 302 from firstsensor-port wall 119 of first sensor port 118 of applicator 100 andseparating a second portion of first sealant plug 302 from secondsensor-port wall 121 of second sensor port 120 of applicator 100. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 32 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 32 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 31, above.

Separating first sealant plug 302 from first sensor-port wall 119 andsecond sensor-port wall 121 prevents first sealant plug 302 frombecoming stuck in first sensor port 118 or second sensor port 120.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 16through 18, according to method 500, glutinous substance 298 that hassolidified further comprises fourth sealant plug 306, integral withsecond sealant plug 304 and located in nozzle portion 192 of tip portion106. Method 500 further comprises (block 520) removing tip portion 106from inner sleeve 210, coaxial with tip portion 106, to expose fourthsealant plug 306. Method 500 also comprises severing fourth sealant plug306 from second sealant plug 304. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 33 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 33 also includes the subject matter according to example 31 or32, above.

Severing fourth sealant plug 306 from second sealant plug 304 (atjunction 308 therebetween) allows inner sleeve 210 to be removed in alater step without being trapped by fourth sealant plug 306.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 17through 18, according to method 500, detaching tip portion 106 ofapplicator 100 from second body portion 104 comprises (block 528)disengaging first circlip 284 from proximal connector portion 188 of tipportion 106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 34 of the present disclosure, wherein example 34also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 31 to33, above.

Use of first circlip 284 provides a secure and reliable connection, andallows tip portion 106 to be detached from second body portion 104without interference from solidified glutinous substance 298.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 10through 12, according to method 500, (block 530) proximal connectorportion 188 of tip portion 106 interfaces with distal connector portion160 of second body portion 104. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 35 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 35 also includes the subject matter according to example 34,above.

Interfacing proximal connector portion 188 with distal connector portion160 provides a reliable, convenient, and secure connection between tipportion 106 and second body portion 104.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 2,according to method 500, detaching side cover 110 from base portion 111of first body portion 102 comprises (block 524) unfastening one or morefasteners 122 from side cover 110. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 36 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 36 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 31 to 35, above.

Use of fasteners 122 allows first body portion 102 to be more securelyconnected to side cover 110, which interfaces with pressurized firstcavity 114 during operation of applicator 100.

Fasteners 122 may include any suitable fastening device, such as bolts,screws, clips, and/or the like, or any combination of these. In theexample shown in the drawings, fasteners 122 include bolts havingcorresponding nuts, wherein the bolts are configured to pass throughopenings 124 in base portion 111 and corresponding openings 126 in sidecover 110.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 15,according to method 500, (block 526) detaching side cover 110 from baseportion 111 of first body portion 102 exposes first junction 150 betweenfirst body portion 102 and second body portion 104. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 37 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 37 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 31 to 36, above.

Exposing first junction 150 facilitates easy access in order that firstsealant plug 302 can be severed from second sealant plug 304. Forexample, a knife might be used to cut first sealant plug 302 from secondsealant plug 304.

Referring generally to FIGS. 22A-22B and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 16through 17, method 500 further comprises (block 522) detaching actuatorinterface 108 of applicator 100 from second body portion 104. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 38 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 38 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 31 to 37, above.

Detaching actuator interface 108 allows complete clearance of glutinoussubstance 298 from applicator 100, and ensures second sealant plug 304is not stuck to actuator interface.

Examples of the present disclosure may be described in the context ofaircraft manufacturing and service method 600 as shown in FIG. 23 andaircraft 602 as shown in FIG. 24. During pre-production, illustrativemethod 600 may include specification and design (block 604) of aircraft602 and material procurement (block 606). During production, componentand subassembly manufacturing (block 608) and system integration (block610) of aircraft 602 may take place. Thereafter, aircraft 602 may gothrough certification and delivery (block 612) to be placed in service(block 614). While in service, aircraft 602 may be scheduled for routinemaintenance and service (block 616). Routine maintenance and service mayinclude modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, etc. of one ormore systems of aircraft 602.

Each of the processes of illustrative method 600 may be performed orcarried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator(e.g., a customer). For the purposes of this description, a systemintegrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraftmanufacturers and major-system subcontractors; a third party mayinclude, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, andsuppliers; and an operator may be an airline, leasing company, militaryentity, service organization, and so on.

As shown in FIG. 24, aircraft 602 produced by illustrative method 600may include airframe 618 with a plurality of high-level systems 620 andinterior 622. Examples of high-level systems 620 include one or more ofpropulsion system 624, electrical system 626, hydraulic system 628, andenvironmental system 630. Any number of other systems may be included.Although an aerospace example is shown, the principles disclosed hereinmay be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry.Accordingly, in addition to aircraft 602, the principles disclosedherein may apply to other vehicles, e.g., land vehicles, marinevehicles, space vehicles, etc.

Apparatus(es) and method(s) shown or described herein may be employedduring any one or more of the stages of the manufacturing and servicemethod 600. For example, components or subassemblies corresponding tocomponent and subassembly manufacturing (block 608) may be fabricated ormanufactured in a manner similar to components or subassemblies producedwhile aircraft 602 is in service (block 614). Also, one or more examplesof the apparatus(es), method(s), or combination thereof may be utilizedduring production stages 608 and 610, for example, by substantiallyexpediting assembly of or reducing the cost of aircraft 602. Similarly,one or more examples of the apparatus or method realizations, or acombination thereof, may be utilized, for example and withoutlimitation, while aircraft 602 is in service (block 614) and/or duringmaintenance and service (block 616).

Different examples of the apparatus(es) and method(s) disclosed hereininclude a variety of components, features, and functionalities. Itshould be understood that the various examples of the apparatus(es) andmethod(s) disclosed herein may include any of the components, features,and functionalities of any of the other examples of the apparatus(es)and method(s) disclosed herein in any combination, and all of suchpossibilities are intended to be within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Many modifications of examples set forth herein will come to mind to oneskilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains having thebenefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings.

Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not tobe limited to the specific examples illustrated and that modificationsand other examples are intended to be included within the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and theassociated drawings describe examples of the present disclosure in thecontext of certain illustrative combinations of elements and/orfunctions, it should be appreciated that different combinations ofelements and/or functions may be provided by alternative implementationswithout departing from the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly,parenthetical reference numerals in the appended claims are presentedfor illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scopeof the claimed subject matter to the specific examples provided in thepresent disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. An applicator (100) for delivering a glutinoussubstance (298), the applicator (100) comprising: a first body portion(102), comprising: a base portion (111); an end-effector interface(112), extending from the base portion (111); and a side cover (110) tobe removably coupled to the base portion (111); and wherein: a firstcavity (114) is formed in the first body portion (102) when the sidecover (110) is removably coupled to the base portion (111), and thefirst cavity (114) is at least partially defined by the base portion(111), the side cover (110), and the end-effector interface (112); asecond body portion (104), extending from the base portion (111) of thefirst body portion (102), wherein the second body portion (104) isnon-parallel to the first body portion (102) and a second cavity (168)extends through the second body portion (104) and intersects the firstcavity (114); a tip portion (106) to be removably coupled to the secondbody portion (104), and wherein the tip portion (106) comprises: anozzle portion (192); and a third cavity (220) that communicativelycouples with the second cavity (168) when the tip portion (106) isremovably coupled to the second body portion (104); an inner sleeve(210) to be coaxially received inside the third cavity (220) of the tipportion (106), and wherein the inner sleeve (210) has a splined outersurface (228); and an actuator interface (108), extending from thesecond body portion (104) opposite the tip portion (106); and whereinthe tip portion (106) and the inner sleeve (210) are interlocked whenthe inner sleeve is received inside the third cavity (220) of the tipportion (106), such that the inner sleeve (210) is prevented fromrotating with respect to the tip portion (106).
 2. The applicator (100)according to claim 1, wherein the second body portion (104) ismonolithic with the base portion (111) of the first body portion (102).3. The applicator (100) according to claim 1, wherein: the tip portion(106) comprises a proximal connector portion (188); the second bodyportion (104) comprises a distal connector portion (160); and the tipportion (106) is to be removably coupled to the second body portion(104) at least in part by engaging the proximal connector portion (188)of the tip portion (106) with the distal connector portion (160) of thesecond body portion (104) so that the tip portion (106) is rotationallyfixed relative to the second body portion (104).
 4. The applicator (100)according to claim 1, wherein the actuator interface (108) is monolithicwith the second body portion (104).
 5. The applicator (100) according toclaim 1, wherein the actuator interface (108) is detachable from thesecond body portion (104).
 6. The applicator (100) according to claim 5,wherein: the actuator interface (108) comprises an interface connectorportion (260), interlockable with a proximal connector portion (154) ofthe second body portion (104); the applicator (100) further comprises acirclip (282); and the circlip (282) is used to secure the actuatorinterface (108) to the second body portion (104) to prevent the actuatorinterface (108) from translating relative to the second body portion(104).
 7. The applicator (100) according to claim 5, wherein: theactuator interface (108) comprises an aperture (244), passingtherethrough; and the aperture (244) is communicatively coupled with thesecond cavity (168) when the actuator interface (108) is removablycoupled to the second body portion (104).
 8. The applicator (100)according to claim 1, further comprising a first sensor port (118),located in the first body portion (102).
 9. The applicator (100)according to claim 8, wherein the first sensor port (118) is located inthe base portion (111) of the first body portion (102).
 10. Theapplicator (100) according to claim 8, further comprising a secondsensor port (120), located in the first body portion (102).
 11. Theapplicator (100) according to claim 10, wherein the second sensor port(120) is in the base portion (111) of the first body portion (102). 12.The applicator (100) according to claim 10, wherein the first sensorport (118) is opposite the second sensor port (120).
 13. The applicator(100) according to claim 1, further comprising a seal (140),positionable between the side cover (110) and the base portion (111),and wherein the seal (140) is positionable between a firstthree-dimensional surface of the side cover (110) and a secondthree-dimensional surface of the base portion (111).
 14. The applicator(100) according to claim 1, further comprising a first annular seal(288), positionable between the second body portion (104) and the tipportion (106), and wherein the first annular seal (288) is positionablebetween a first two-dimensional surface of the second body portion (104)and a second two-dimensional surface of the tip portion (106).
 15. Theapplicator (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a secondannular seal (286), positionable between the second body portion (104)and the actuator interface (108), wherein the second annular seal (286)is positionable between a third two-dimensional surface of the secondbody portion (104) and a fourth two-dimensional surface of the actuatorinterface (108).
 16. A method (400) of assembling an applicator (100)for delivering a glutinous substance (298), the method comprising stepsof: attaching a side cover (110) to a base portion (111) of a first bodyportion (102) of the applicator (100), and wherein: an end-effectorinterface (112) extends from the base portion (111) at a first end (142)of the first body portion (102); the applicator (100) comprises a secondbody portion (104), extending from the base portion (111) at a secondend (144) of the first body portion (102); a first cavity (114) isformed in the first body portion (102) when the side cover (110) isremovably coupled to the base portion (111); the first cavity (114) isat least partially defined by the base portion (111), the end-effectorinterface (112), and the side cover (110); the second body portion (104)is non-parallel to the first body portion (102); and a second cavity(168), extending through the second body portion (104), is in fluidcommunication with the first cavity (114) of the first body portion(102); assembling a tip portion (106) of the applicator (100) byinserting an inner sleeve (210) into the tip portion (106), such thatthe inner sleeve (210) is coaxial with the tip portion (106), whereinassembling the tip portion (106) further comprises engaging a splinedouter surface (228) of the inner sleeve (210) with a splined innersurface (200) of the tip portion (106), and wherein a third cavity (220)extends through the inner sleeve (210); and coupling the tip portion(106) to the second body portion (104), such that the tip portion (106)and the second body portion (104) are coaxial and the third cavity (220)of the inner sleeve (210) is in fluid communication with the secondcavity (168) of the second body portion (104).
 17. The method (400)according to claim 16, further comprising coupling an actuator interface(108) to a proximal end (152) of the second body portion (104), opposingthe tip portion (106), and wherein the actuator interface (108)comprises an aperture (244) to receive a plunger (342), extending froman actuator (340).
 18. The method (400) according to claim 17, furthercomprising inserting the plunger (342), extending from the actuator(340), through the aperture (244) of the actuator interface (108) andcoupling the actuator (340) to the actuator interface (108), and whereinthe plunger (342) extends through the second cavity (168).
 19. Themethod (400) according to claim 16, wherein the step of coupling the tipportion (106) to the second body portion (104) comprises engaging aproximal connector portion (188) of the tip portion (106) with a distalconnector portion (160) of the second body portion (104).
 20. The method(400) according to claim 19, further comprising securing the proximalconnector portion (188) of the tip portion (106) to the distal connectorportion (160) of the second body portion (104) using a circlip (284).